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China Terminology ›› 2010, Vol. 12 ›› Issue (3): 51-55.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8578.2010.03.013

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Investigation on “posuoshi” (Bezoar Stone) in Tang and Song Dynasties

HONG Mei   

  • Received:2009-11-27 Online:2010-06-25 Published:2010-08-25

Abstract: Based on the retrospection and previous researches on posuoshi (婆娑石, bezoar, padzahr), the author made a further investigation on the related Chinese documents and The Book Most Comprehensive in Knowledge on Precious Stones (by Al-Beruni). The comparing analysis on property, nature, action, identification methods and customs indicates that posuoshi referred to xingjiushi (醒酒石) in Tang Dynasty, but mainly referred to bezoar in Song Dynasty. Moreover, posuoshi was a general name for many kinds of gemstones with the action of protecting life and soul, as well as resisting toxin including bezoar mineral and bezoar animal. Our conclusion clarified the nomenclature problem of posuoshi which has been perplexing the medical communication and other related affairs for many years.

Key words: posuoshi, bezoar, investigation

CLC Number:  (术语规范及交流)